ABC’s “Good Morning America” named Sleeping Bear Dunes the nation’s most beautiful spot in 2011. More than 1.1 million people visit annually to wander the park’s 35 miles of shoreline, climb the dunes, hike forest trails and tour historic structures including former lifesaving stations.

The park also includes the North and South Manitou Islands, both popular with campers.

Its name was inspired by a Native American legend of a mother bear and her two cubs.